Squoval nails are having a moment. As seen on countless celebrities and influencers, this trending nail shape has quickly become one of the most requested in-salon. Softer than square, sharper than oval, squoval nails are elegant, chic, and universally flattering.

There are several decisions involved when having a manicure. Do you want nail art or no nail art? How about a pastel polish or something bright? And what about nail shape? Before your appointment, it’s always good to do some research and scroll through fresh nail designs that will inspire your next nail look. And as for nail shape, why not consider the famous squoval. 

Sitting somewhere between square and oval, squoval nails are the best of both worlds. “Squoval is an extremely popular shape and a favorite among nail techs, too,” says Sophie Louise Martin, luxury gel manicurist, and natural nail specialist, “it’s the perfect shape to create an effortless, chic manicure.” It’s also easy to do DIY. Here, we break down everything you need to know about squoval nails, including a step-by-step guide to nailing this shape at home. You’re welcome!

Squoval is the goldilocks of nail shapes. Not too round and not too square – squoval sits somewhere in the middle. “The squoval nail shape is square with soft, rounded edges,” explains Juanita Huber-Millet, founder of award-winning London nail salon, Townhouse, “which is why it’s the ultimate crowd pleaser.” 

“It takes the boldness of the square edge and combines it with the softness of oval corners,” continues Juanita. Increasingly popular in-salon, Juanita believes this is down to its sophisticated look as well as, “the fact that it suits most hands, nail art trends and polish colors.” 

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The beauty of this look is that it suits everyone and every nail length, but a squoval shape works especially well with nail designs for short nails. “It’s a shape that works well for most nail lengths,” confirms Huber-Millet, “versus almond, stiletto, and ballerina shapes which are better suited to longer nails.” According to Martin, “the best length for a squoval shape is short and neat with a little bit of length above the smile line.”

As well as suiting different lengths, squoval nails work well with most colors. “Both light and dark colors look great on squoval nails,” says Huber-Millet. “Personally, I love classic colors such as vibrant reds and dark licorice black for squoval nails,” adds Martin.  

It's the perfect shape for nail art, too. “We love to liven it up with nail art as well – the squoval sides provide more surface area for gorgeous designs,” continues Huber-Millet. Which is great news for anyone considering French tip nails. Nail design aside, “squoval nails are a lot more structurally sound than an oval or square,” says Martin. “Ovals can be quite weak in the middle as they are missing the support of the corners, while squares can catch on the corners, causing chips.” Essentially, squoval is the perfect middle ground. 

Another bonus of the squoval shape is that it’s easy to nail at home. “All you need to create squoval nails are some nail clippers, a buffer, and a nail file,” says Huber-Millet. Follow this step-by-step guide: